Melbourne Rebels have added starch to their forward pack for the next two seasons, having signed prop Wallabies-qualified prop Max Lahiff from London Irish. The prop, who qualifies to play for Australia through his father, has made 59 first-team appearances since joining the London Irish Academy in 2009.

"Moving to the Rebels is an exciting opportunity for me and I am looking forward to playing in the Super Rugby competition," Lahiff said. "There are still three games left for London Irish this season and I will be playing my heart out to ensure we finish the season well."

Rebels coach Damien Hill said Lahiff would be suited to Super Rugby and would complement the style of game the Rebels were building towards. "At only 23 years of age, he has played a considerable amount of rugby for the London Irish at the highest level," Hill said. "He is a very athletic and powerful prop, which will suit the speed of Super Rugby. He has the ability play both sides of the scrum, which is a valuable skill as a modern prop forward."

Lahiff will join the Rebels at the beginning of the club's off-season in October.